February 22, 2010

Arlington Natl. Cemetery's Old Guard: Not All of Washington, D.C. Shut Down During Snow Storm by Lyle J. Rapacki, PhD.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Lyle J Rapacki is a frequent contributor to RFFM.org. Rapacki is an independent intelligence analyst who receives and disseminates critical intelligence and policy information for and to law enforcement, intelligence and homeland security officials and operatives, and government and community leaders. He is the author of dozens of white papers, bulletins and briefings, and is frequently called on to share his expertise with public and private security directors and organizations.

Not all of Washington, D.C. was shut-down recently because of snow. At the Tomb of the Unknowns, members of "The Old Guard" continued to walk post; just like they have every day, every night, during rain, snow, freeze, and even during a hurricane a couple of years ago. They never stopped walking, they never stopped their vigil, they never stopped honoring and remembering.

Years ago, I was privileged to be present during the "Changing of the Watch" at midnight. Virtually no one was around. It was pitch black and cold. A slight breeze with a drizzle was my companion, along with my escort. But virtually, that was all who were present, except "The Old Guard." They noticed me only out of vigilance, and I have no doubt they would have challenged me if I had approached The Tomb. Otherwise, they walked, they never stopped their vigil, they never stopped honoring and remembering.

I guess America is a strange land to many across the world. Americans are a strange people, too. We are different. We detest war, but our military are the first on shore when freedom is being strangled and tyranny is raising it's demonic head. We are flush with many fine toys and material items, but we are the first to share these, anywhere in the world, when storms and calamities come to a country and people, and wipe-out all they own. We love to laugh and sing and have a good time, and we export the same to all corners of the earth to help people everywhere lighten their load - even if briefly. There is much we have, and much we extend to others.

But the reverence for our brave and selfless "keepers of the flame of freedom," those who gave the ultimate sacrifice, in the line-of-duty, is one example all other countries have imitated, and in which you never hear a despairing word.

May you ponder the cost our military men and women bear without truly griping. May you imagine the hardship, loneliness, separation from loved ones and familiar surroundings our military endures in far away lands. May you think, for just a moment, our fragile freedom is protected, in part, by some kids who just a year or two ago were drag racing down the street, and today race across a "kill zone" praying to be faster than ever.

The dedicated members of "The Old Guard" acknowledge the aforesaid, and more, and consider it an honor to walk, and continue their vigil, and never stop honoring or remembering all who paid the ultimate price for freedom. They march in front of this hallowed tomb for us, too.